1978 Volkswagen Beetle Last Edition LEB

As is well known, the VW Beetle was initially designed to provide cheap transport for the hard working German masses. Built in very small numbers before and during World War II, the Beetle literally rose from the ashes of Volkswagen's bombed out Wolfsburg factory to become an instant success in Europe, Britain, America and virtually every other country in the world. The model evolved through various facelifts and numerous mechanical changes - there were more than 70,000 identifiable modifications - and it provided a platform for other models, including commercial vehicles and sporting derivatives such as those by Karmann-Ghia. It was this constant development and attention to detail which allowed the Beetle to maintain its position, and as production raced past the 15,000,000 mark, the Beetle went on to be crowned "The Best Selling' car of all time.

Volkswagen produced the last 300 German manufactured right-hand drive beetles in 1978 and they were all finished in the very special "Jubilee Silver", a colour unique to this batch and never used on any other model year. The vehicles were each equipped with a 1200cc engine (the most famous of all), blue corded velour trim, a flat screen (as a nod to the past), heated rear window, fresh air blower and a handbrake dash light. Finally, a dash mounted plaque states the vehicles number in the sequence. This example, number 111, is known throughout the VW owners club and features on the official LEB register.

Reading an unwarranted 8,955 miles, number 111 was the subject of a sympathetic restoration between 2011-2013 and is in lovely condition. The Jubilee Silver paintwork is bright and the interior is immaculate. All brightwork and chrome are 'as new', the glass is original and the engine bay is tidy. A number of bills detailing expenditure and a current MoT are with the car and it has recently been serviced by respected VW specialist Veedubs.

The LEB was produced in smaller numbers than any previous special edition Beetle and in our opinion is a very significant collector's car or would make an ideal first classic for an enthusiast at a most reasonable outlay.